A beginner's guide to baked cheesecake

Explore our favourite baked cheesecake recipes and pick up a host of handy tips in this guide. From classic vanilla to tangy raspberry, these recipes prove why cheesecake is one of our absolute favourite desserts.

Baked vs unbaked cheesecake

When it comes to cheesecakes, you have two main options: baked or unbaked. Baked cheesecakes usually include eggs and require a gentle heat to get them to set. They are characterised by their heavy, dense, smooth texture and can include a range of fillings. Unbaked cheesecakes are lighter than their baked counterparts, and rely on gelatine to help them set. They tend to have a fluffy, aerated texture that that is ideal with fruity flavours.

Baked cheesecake tips

Ensure your cheesecakes are always a success by following these tips:

Pick your cheese: If you prefer your baked cheesecakes with a lighter consistency, look for a recipe that includes ricotta. However, if it's a dense, creamy cheesecake you're after opt for a traditional New York cheesecake which includes a staggering amount of cream cheese and plenty of eggs to achieve its legendary consistency.

Have everything at room temperature: To help your cheesecake come together perfectly, make sure all your ingredients are at room texture before you start.

Don't over mix: Cheesecakes need a light hand as over mixing can lead to a grainy texture and cause the cheesecake to separate.

Prepare for mess: Occasionally, springform pans can leak as the cheesecake cooks. To avoid a mess in the bottom of the oven, place a baking tray underneath the pan to catch any spill and save mess.

How to stop it cracking

This is by far the number one concern when it comes to making baked cheesecakes. The best way to prevent it from happening to yours is to ensure the cake isn't exposed to extreme temperature changes. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for one hour before removing it. Once it's out of the oven run a knife around the edges of the cake and the pan to allow it to shrink a little without puling along the sides. Once it's completely cool, unclip the tin and carefully remove the cheesecake to a serving plate.

Best baked cheesecake recipes

Okay cheesecake cooks, here are the best baked cheesecake recipes that are sure to become your new favourites.

How to serve baked cheesecakes

Don't let your hard work go to waste by ensuring your baked cheesecake looks as perfect on the plate as it did straight from the oven. Follow these simple tips to ensure it's served perfectly:

Dip a chef's knife (not serrated) in just-boiled water for two seconds. Dry it off with a tea towel and then make the first cut.

Repeat the water and tea towel after each cut until the cheesecake is cut into the desired number of pieces.

Once you've got it on the plate, either serve it as is, or with a little whipped cream or a fruit coulis.

How to store a baked cheesecake

The best place to store your baked cheesecake is in a well-sealed container in the fridge. Make sure the cheesecake is thoroughly cool before adding to the fridge and try to eat it within 24 hours, otherwise the base will lose it's crispiness and the filling will begin to dry out.

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